National hero in DR Congo: 4 secrets to know about Axel Tuanzebe before the 2026 World Cup

Special Reports 01 April 2026 at 04:26

Imed Ben Amara

News Editor

31.03.26 AET World Cup Qualification Inter-Confederation

DR Congo

1

:

Jamaica

0

DR Congo will be the 10th African nation to represent the continent at the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in North America from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

The Leopards secured their qualification at the expense of Jamaica in the intercontinental playoff final. Axel Tuanzebe, the Burnley FC defender, scored the decisive goal in the 101st minute.

Official: FIFA unveils its new rankings after AFCON 2025

The Bunia-born player helped the Leopards return to the world’s most prestigious competition after a drought of more than half a century.

Here are 4 secrets you need to know about Axel Tuanzebe, DR Congo’s new national hero.

A shining example of assimilation

The Congolese defender emigrated to England with his family in 2001 at the age of four to escape the civil war. Although he didn’t speak English upon arrival, he achieved excellent academic results and fully integrated into his new environment.

“Moving to another country, with different customs and culture, is always tough. But I made a lot of friends playing football, built connections with different communities, and from there, I joined a local football club—and I’ve never regretted that choice,” he told the Observer website.

Tough living conditions

The Leopard didn’t have an easy childhood in England. He had to live in a single house with his grandparents, parents, brothers, and sisters.

Later, he moved to a housing complex in Rochdale, where he had the chance to play football on the neighborhood’s small pitches.

A true athlete

In addition to his outstanding academic achievements, Axel Tuanzebe stood out at school for his exceptional athletic abilities.

He notably represented his school, Stamford Bridge, in three disciplines: football, cross-country, and triple jump.

A huge Lewis Hamilton fan

The Congolese international is a big fan of Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion.

Tuanzebe often spends his Sundays watching Grand Prix races. He even bought himself a Formula 1 simulator to experience the thrill of racing firsthand.

He’s even considering becoming a professional driver after his football career.

Related teams and leagues

DR Congo

Jamaica

World Cup Qualification Inter-Confederation